Summer Vacation Tips for Healthy Feet

At NY Foot Health, we know that many families plan summer vacations. It's a great chance to rest and recharge, and we want to ensure a foot or ankle problem doesn't derail your plans.

Help your feet help you get the most out of your vacation with these tips:

• Start off on the right foot—choose comfortable, tried-and-true athletic or walking shoes for a travel day. However, when you're getting to your vacation destination, the journey will be active and involve considerable walking. Don't begin your trip with foot pain.

• Plan for long rides—keeping the blood flowing on long flights or car rides can be challenging. Try to stand, stretch and briefly walk at least once every two hours. If you have diabetes or another condition that impedes circulation, consider compression stockings.

• Pack like a pro—even if you’re trying to travel light, don't skimp when having the proper footwear for the activities on your itinerary. Asking for summer sandals to double as walking shoes for site seeing tours or nature hikes is an invitation for an ankle sprain or other injury.

• Don’t go barefoot—keep your feet covered in public places like pools, water parks, beach changing areas, and restrooms. Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments and are transmitted by direct contact.

• Remember to apply and re-apply sunscreen—before you spread out on your beach blanket, apply a generous amount to all exposed skin. Don’t forget the bottoms of your feet—sunburnt soles are a shortcut to a ruined vacation you’ll want to avoid.

• Stay hydrated—drinking plenty of water will help reduce the risk of edema—swelling—of your feet and ankles.

• Don’t ignore foot and ankle discomfort—if you notice a rash, dry, flaky skin, or other unusual symptoms when you return, make an appointment with the podiatrist and get them evaluated promptly. If you don't currently see a podiatrist, you can find one near you through our online directory.

To learn more ways to take better care of your feet, contact us and subscribe to our free e-newsletter.